Notepad++ vs Sublime Text: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Notepad++ and Sublime Text comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Notepad++
Free source code editor for Windows
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Notepad++ is a free source code editor and Notepad replacement
- • It provides syntax highlighting for 80+ languages with plugin support
Sublime Text
Sophisticated text editor
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 7.6/10)
- • Sublime Text is a fast, sophisticated text editor for code
- • It provides powerful shortcuts, goto anything, and extensive customization
| At a Glance |  Notepad++ |  Sublime Text |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 76/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Notepad++ | Sublime Text |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 76 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsFile Management | IDE & Code EditorsTerminal Tools |
How Notepad++ and Sublime Text Compare
Notepad++
Free source code editor for Windows
Free · 76/100 score
Sublime Text
Sophisticated text editor
Paid · 85/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Notepad++ is free. Sublime Text is paid.
Go with: Notepad++
Want the highest-rated option?
Notepad++: 76/100. Sublime Text: 85/100.
Go with: Sublime Text
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Sublime Text
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Notepad++ is free. Sublime Text is paid. Go with Notepad++ if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are ide & code editors tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Sublime Text scores higher: 85/100 vs 76/100.
Key Takeaways
Sublime Text
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 76
- Our pick for this comparison
Notepad++
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Sublime Text (85/100) is our pick. That said, Notepad++ is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Notepad++ or Sublime Text better?
Sublime Text scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Notepad++ is free and Sublime Text is paid.
What are Notepad++ and Sublime Text used for?
Notepad++: Free source code editor for Windows. Sublime Text: Sophisticated text editor.
What does Notepad++ cost vs Sublime Text?
Notepad++ is completely free. Sublime Text is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.